How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In California, general contractors must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued at $500 or more. To apply for a license, an individual must have at least four years of relevant work experience in the last ten years (or be represented by someone who does), must pass both a law and business and a trade exam, and must be bonded. Individuals or businesses that have employees must also have workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.